No Mshishi, no problem! Mamelodi Sundowns legend claims Lucas Ribeiro has 'filled' Themba Zwane's void - 'He's making those runs'

Former Mamelodi Sundowns captain Wayne Arendse has made a bold claim about Lucas Ribeiro Costa in the absence of Themba Zwane. 

Mshishi, as Downs skipper is affectionately known, picked up an Achilles injury during Bafana Bafana's 1-1 draw against Congo-Brazzaville in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations clash last month. 

However, Arendse, who played with Zwane for many years before he left Sundowns in 2020, has an idea that Ribeiro is capable of filling the void left by his former teammate. 

“Lucas Ribeiro is something else. From day one, he has been performing well on that Sundowns team, showing his quality,” Arendse told FARPost.

“I think he has filled Themba Zwane’s role very well after that long-term injury. He’s making those runs and makes the midfield click well.

“He has stepped up his performance in the team, and now he’s the main man making the team play well. Up front, he has continued with his scoring form, which is good to witness.”

Ribeiro's performance has been impressive since he joined Sundowns. This season, he kicked off the campaign with great success under the guidance of Manqoba Mngqithi.

The 26-year-old standout player has tallied a total of seven goals and two assists in 12 appearances across all competitions.

Meanwhile, Zwane, aged 35, has been absent for a total of seven matches across various competitions for Masandawana. He will be unavailable for the upcoming Carling Knockout final between Downs and Magesi FC.

Mshishi's injury has had an impact not only on the Tshwane giants but also on Bafana Bafana, despite Hugo Broos' team winning their match against Uganda without him.

Ribeiro is anticipated to lend a hand in Sundowns' bid to win the Carling Knockout title as they go head-to-head with Magesi FC at the Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein this Saturday.

On the other hand, according to Mngqithi's statement, Zwane is expected to return to action around February 2025. Bafana must manage without him during their match against South Sudan on Tuesday in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.